Vitamin D And The Law Of Unintended Consequences

Today's Washington Times posted a story on vitamin D deficiency, a condition that millions of people are suffering from worldwide. 

Dr. Michael Holick, a Boston University professor of medicine and physiology, believes that the deficiency probably affects more than 50 per cent of the world's population.  As more doctors become aware of these numbers, they are suggesting to their patients that they take over-the-counter supplements. 

Vitamin D is produced when skin is exposed to sunlight.  Because dermatologists have discouraged exposure to the sun, wanting to limit skin cancers, people are using sun blocks or staying out of the sun. 

According to the article:

"Dr. Holick said his advice was to "be sensible," though he lost his job as professor of dermatology at Boston University School of Medicine in 2004 as a result of his belief in the benefits of sunshine. "Fortunately, I had other appointments" elsewhere at the medical school, he said."

I think this may be an area where balance is the answer.  Meanwhile, be prepared to hear both sides of this argument claim they are right!